1978 Fiat 126 vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Peugeot 408 (147 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 126.
Because 1978 Fiat 126 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Peugeot 408 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Peugeot 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat 126. 2012 Peugeot 408 has automatic transmission and 1978 Fiat 126 has manual transmission. 1978 Fiat 126 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat 126 | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
Make | Fiat | Peugeot |
Model | 126 | 408 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 651 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 24 HP | 147 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 42 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1815 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1525 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |